The 2024 World Nettle Eating Championships saw a new record set by the winners, as more than 30 participants from around the world competed in the prickly contest at the Dorset Nectar Cider Farm near Bridport.
Tom Wheeler from London claimed the men’s trophy by consuming the leaves from 116ft (35.4m) of nettle stalks, surpassing last year’s record. Defending women’s champion Beth Hodges retained her title by eating 64ft (19.5m) of nettles, beating her own previous record.
Despite the pain in her hands, Ms. Hodges, who traveled from Wales, was happy to win again. She mentioned that her voice had deepened, and her tongue changed color due to the stinging nettles. The dryness and chewing of the nettles were challenging this year.
Formerly held at the Bottle Inn at Marshwood, the championships have now been taken over by Ryan Strong at the Dorset Nectar Cider Farm. Nettle stalks are cut into 2ft (61cm) lengths, and contestants can dip them in cider to moisten them. The competition was opened by Bridport Town Crier John Collingwood.